SYDNEY BOAT SHOW: Torqeedo electric motors from Germany
Torqeedo set to launch a range of impressive new electric motors for your canoe, tinnie or tenderThe high-quality, low-maintenance, zero-emissions German-made Torqeedo electric motors are set to make a splash at the 2016 Sydney International Boat Show via national importer Power Equipment and its new local Torqeedo dealer, Boating Connexions, which will have the popular 3hp model on display.
Awarded numerous times over in the boating industry, Torqeedo is touted as a great alternative to small two-stroke
outboards, with a range of motors starting with an ultralight 1hp kicker ideal for canoes and kayaks, popular 1.5hp models for $2530 up to a 3hp motors from
$3080, then bigger Torqeedo models for tinnies. and even powerful integrated electric solutions for yachts.
You can read all about the Torqeedo Australian launch that we attended in 2016 here.
The smallest Torqeedo models use an integrated lithium-ion battery, which are fully waterproof to IP67, ideal for the smallest of dinghies. Larger models connect to external batteries, and some can even be attached to solar panels for charging, giving an infinite power source.
In order to compete with the petrol outboards, Torqeedo boasts great efficiency with its electric drives. If you look at power going into the motor versus power at the prop, Torqeedo says its motors work at typically 50 per cent efficiency, compared to around 10 per cent with a petrol outboard.
In respect of “range anxiety” — essentially, will I get from A to B without running out of charge — the electrics feature an integrated onboard computer with GPS-based real-time calculations so you can see your remaining range and reduce speed if necessary.
A Torqeedo 3hp with integral lithium battery on a 3.5m inflatable, running at a variety of speeds, is said to have a range of around 4.5 hours on one charge of battery.
Of course, starting an electric outboard is simple, as there’s no cord to pull, just press a button, attach the kill cord and go. There are both tiller and remote console steering options available for higher horesepower versions. Across the range, these are pitched as safe boat propulsion solutions with easy operation.
The bonus comes in zero maintenance and running costs over a battery lifetime of around seven to 10 years. There are environmental benefits — no exhaust emissions, no risk of fuel spillage and very little noise.
The Torqeedo motors are currently available at selected dealers nationally and importer Power Equipment welcomes Boating Connexions on Sydney's southside to the fold.
For more information on Torqeedo, visit the Power Equipment www.powerequipment.com.au/products/torqeedo.
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